The 8 Best Bow Press Reviews & Buying Guide

Whether a professional or an amateur hunter, one of the most crucial tools you must have is a bow press. Not just any can do the job; it must be the best bow press. It is the tool you will need to repair your bow, change the strings, and replace the cables.

An all-round tool, a bow press is what ensures that your bow is working perfectly and optimally. Besides, it replaces the need to hire a professional to repair your bow for you. All these benefits are only possible if you buy the best bow press currently in the market.

We recognize this fact but do not worry. We have conducted lengthy and deep research on your behalf and come up with a review of 8 of the best models you can trust to deliver. Later, we shall look at a few vital factors that should inform your decision.

Best Bow Press Reviews

1. Bowmaster Press G2 Portable Bow

The manufacturer of the Bowmaster portable bow press knows precisely what customers want; therefore, they made a product that delivers just that. It is the bow press you need if you have a powerful bow because it adds capabilities. Two essential features confer the benefits of the G2

First, G2 features a 6-inch jackscrew that fits a broad range of hunting bows equipped with shorter axle to axle. Even those as short as 26.5 inches can be managed by this bow press. This feature is more important if yours is the somewhat longer Split Limb Brackets Generation 2.

Second, the 6-inch jackscrew enables you to tear down your bow with high, pre-load limbs completely. Thus, the Bowmaster offers leeway for those interested in using complex bows for professional hunting or archery competitions.

All metal Bowmaster is solid and compact, and therefore lightweight and portable. It is small enough to fit effortlessly into your belt pack or even your pocket or backpack. Thus you can quickly and conveniently repair your compound bows at home, in the field, and far away in the jungles.

With G2, you can easily replace cables and strings, install peep sights, replace wheels or cams, adjust draw length, install the limb mounted quivers, replace the quivers or even replace the limbs. The unique jackscrew structure offers the Bowmaster Press G2 a wide range of adjustments delivering the proper pull needed for each job.

Pros

• Durable all-metal construction
• The jackscrew design is versatile
• Highly compact and portable
• Quick and easy to use
• Affordable

Cons

• Not suitable for full press purposes
• It may feel dangerous to use for those new users

2. IVEKE Portable Hand Held Bow Press

Another sturdy, robust, and compact bow press you can trust to help you repair and manage your compound bow is the IVEKE Portable Hand Held Bow Press. It features an all-metal construction which gives it decent levels of durability and resilience.

Although all the parts are made of metal, there is no chance of rusting or corroding due to the quality of materials used. Whether pro shop or archer, it will allow you to change the cables or springs effortlessly, install the peep sights, replace wheels or cams, adjust draw length, swap limbs, or even the handle.

The design includes bracket adaptors which are available for complete limb bows. However, it isn’t meant for use on past parallel limb bows. It features an adjustable mechanism that enables you to adjust its size while working on various types and designs of bows. Besides, it comes with cables of stops that vary in size to accommodate different bows.

Being so light and portable, you can be sure of the health and performance of your youth compound bow anywhere and everywhere. You can carry it in your backpack, your hunting belt, and even your pocket. It’s package measures 11.3 x 6.69 x 2.91 inches and weighs a paltry 1.46 pounds.

Pros

• Robust and durable construction
• Comfortable and ergonomic to carry around over long periods and distances
• Easily adjustable to accommodate various types of bows
• Versatile bow press
• The bow press comes with two brackets to enhance its performance

Cons

• Not suitable for the past parallel limb bows
• May hurt new users because of inexperience

3. Bowmaster Bow Press

Bowmaster bow press is a household name when it comes to archery equipment. Apart from the Bowmaster Generation 2 or G2, this model is a perfect alternative. Many of their essential features and specifications compare, and so do their performances.

However, the Bowmaster Bow Press has limited use. You can use it when changing cables, adjusting strings, and performing minor and moderate bow repair services. Similar to G2, you can adjust this archery accessory to different lengths to fit different types of bows effectively.

The versatility makes it an ideal choice for people with various types of bows because it is effective on most solid limb bows. Furthermore, each package comes with an adaptor you can use when on a complete split limb bow.

To ensure sturdiness, durability, and longevity, the bow press features complete metal construction. The metal is coated with corrosion and rust-resistant material. Even in wet conditions, the bow press will remain as effective as new. Despite the design material, it remains compact and lightweight (only 13.28 ounces).

Being a combination of both a bow press and string changer, you can be confident that all your bow maintenance needs will be accomplished. This is why it can fit split limbs and all other types of bow treatments, whether in the field or at home.

Pros

• Compact and portable for use at home and in the field
• Adjustable for versatile use
• Works comfortably with different types of bows
• Robust all-metal construction

Cons

• Costlier than other standard bow presses
• It may not work for crossbows

4. Ratchet-Loc Portable Bow Press

Ratchet-Loc Portable Bow Press offers you an easy and quick way to maintain your bow. It provides a reliable alternative if you do not like or dread the way jackscrew bow presses work. It is sturdy, compact, and lightweight. Therefore, it can deliver excellent performance whether you are at home or out in the field.

Made in the USA from mechanized aluminum, the bow press is a true mark of quality and will work perfectly for most bows. It comes with two aircraft-grade aluminum brackets, a lock, and a long strap designed to hold the tension. The nylon strap and ratchet lock system are easier, safer, and quicker to use than the jackscrew models.

Before buying Ratchet-Loc Portable Bow Press, be sure to check if it works with your bow variety to avoid bringing home an expensive and useless bow maintenance accessory. The good news is that you can use it in most types of crossbows and compound bows.

The speed, convenience, and versatility of the Ratchet-Loc make it ideal for use in archery tournaments as well as advanced bow-hunting excursions. If you have a team, then only one member can carry theirs, and you can be sure that all the bows in that team will perform optimally at all times with minimal time loss.

Pros

• Made from solid and durable aircraft-grade aluminum
• Compact, lightweight and corrosion-resistant, and rust-resistant
• You can use it in many different kinds of bows
• Made in the USA
• Fast, easy, and safe to use

Cons

• The instruction manual is difficult to understand
• Buffering is necessary against the side in contact with the limb edges

5. Bebebao Portable Hand Held Bow Press

Every purchase of the Bebebao Portable Hand Held Bow Press comes as a package or bundle containing a Bowmaster Bow Press and two Bowmaster Standard ¾ inch Quad Limb brackets. It means you will be able to use the bow press on the go right out of the package.

The quad limb brackets and the market standard will help adjust various compound bows and a few crossbows. To be exact, the brackets will fit the three-quarter size cams, which make up to 90 percent of the bows currently in the market.

Bow presses aren’t cheap items. Therefore, it makes economic sense to look for a model that is made from durable materials. The Bebebao Portable Hand Help Bow press is not only durable but also extremely lightweight. Its all-metal construction will give you years of dependable service while maintaining a low weight.

The unique and patented modern jackscrew design gives the archery accessory a more comprehensive range of adjustability and versatility than its predecessors that look awkward and bulky. It features plastic-covered 3/8 inch cable ends that fit all split limb bow models that are “V”-shaped. The bow press only works for full split bows if used along with quad limb brackets.

Pros

• Works perfectly for the majority of bows
• Compact lightweight design is portable
• Easy to use if you are knowledgeable
• Achieves most of the limb maintenance activities
• Offers value for money

Cons

• It can be dangerous if not accustomed to
• The rubber sleeves over the grip end tend to slide off under tension

6. Highmoor 1pc Compound Bow Press

Highmoor may not be one of the most popular brands when it comes to bow presses. This may be due to a relatively shorter market presence compared to other popular brands. It can also be due to a much lower level of marketing aggressiveness. That said, Highmoor’s compound bow press remains one of the best bow presses for the money.

Designed specifically for compound bows, this press comes along with two quad limb brackets essential for its use. It is made of high-quality mechanized aluminum that is not only lightweight but also strong and tension resistant. It is also corrosion- and rust-proof even if used or stored in wet conditions. However, always strive to keep all your tools and equipment appropriately.

This metal arrow press and bracket set enables you to adjust the string effortlessly, replace cams, install draw length and swap the limb handles if need be, among other applications. The multiple stock cable allows the versatility to adjust compound bows of different sizes and brands. Only a few of the advanced and modern presses possess these features.

The Highmoor compound bow press is one of the most affordable models globally, yet it possesses many of the qualities and features seen with other expensive models. You can use it with both split and solid limb compound bows.

Pros

• Ideal for most bow maintenance needs
• Durable all-metal construction
• Compact, lightweight, and highly portable
• Offers excellent value for money

Cons

• The package comes without helpful instructions
• It may not be useful in large compound bows

7. Bow Medic Compound Bow Press

As the name sounds, the Bow Medic Compound Bow Press is what you need to maintain the health and performance of your bows, whether you are using them for sport archery or fun hunting. It’s affordable, compact, and well made for the average user

The bow press is incredibly light; you can carry it in your backpack, hunting belt, or even your pocket. This also means you can maintain your compound bows and have them work in their best conditions, whether you are at home, in the fields, or at a tournament somewhere. It is a perfect choice for a quick fix.

The most notable difference between the Bow Medic Compound Bow Press and the full-size presses is the price and compatibility. It can perform all the functions of full-size bow presses in the field and without the need to pay for the services of a professional.

It’s not clear whether this bow press can work for crossbows too. The multiple notches on the cable mean that it can be used in compound bows of different sizes, although some users say those with larger draw-weights claim the press failed to work in theirs. Check if it can work with yours before you commit to purchase the bow press.

Pros

• Offers decent value for money
• Compact, lightweight, and portable
• All metal construction confers durability
• Affordable yet does its work well

Cons

• The need to separately order for L-shaped adaptor sets
• May give in to tension as draw weight increases

8. SHARROW Archery Compound Bow Press

The last but not least bow press you can bet on is the SHARROW Archery Compound Bow Press. It is an effective and reliable alternative to jackscrew models. It is made of premium materials for optimal performance and longevity. It allows archers and pro shots to carry out a battery of bow maintenance procedures.

The press allows you to incorporate a string silencer to speed the adjustment processes without losing the riser’s torque. The aluminum construction gives the press optimal strength, resilience, and durability while ensuring that it remains lightweight and portable. You can use it on compound bows, crossover bows, and all other bow models featuring vertical limbs.

Such versatility makes it ideal for various functions, including replacing cables and strings, installing peep sights, swapping the wheels or cams, adjusting draw length, installing the limb mounted quivers, and changing the bow quivers, or even replacing the limbs. This makes it a good bow press for both indoor and outdoor bow maintenance.

Sharrow is one of the most successful brands in the production of high-quality compound bows. You can be sure they know everything regarding different types of bows and how to maintain them. Funnily, it is also one of the most affordable bow presses you can find in the market for adjusting compound bows and certain crossbows.

Pros

• Reliable performance on various bow types
• Works well as intended
• Easy and safe to use
• Compact for portability and storage

Cons

• Lack of more precise instructions may be frustrating
• Additional consumer experience is necessary to define quality more accurately

Best Bow Press: Things Worth Considering

Hopefully, you already have an idea of what to look for and where to find it. The next concern should be how to find one that will suit your needs. This section will examine a few of the most critical factors you must consider to arrive at the best choice.

Ultimately, you can use this buying guide alongside the reviews to pick the best bow press for your needs. Following overviews of the most vital of those factors:

Bow Press Type

An examination of the bow presses in the market reveals two broad types: Ratchet-loc type and cable type. The cable type is compact and portable because it is lightweight. It features all-metal construction and comes along with attachments that allow you to use the press on quad limb types of bows.

The ratchet-loc type, on the other hand, is strong and features fabric in addition to metal components. Its clams are made of aluminum and ribbon to enable it onto arms. This type is powerful and versatile, but maybe a little bit bulkier and heavier. However, you can still carry enough to carry in your backpack without weighing you down.

Construction Material

Adjusting, replacing, or changing any components of the bow requires you to overcome tension and torque. Considerable drag weight can potentially damage a bow press. Therefore, any tool used for such must withstand such forces and loads but remain compact and lightweight.

Look for a bow press that features all-metal construction. Aluminum is perhaps the best material for archery accessories. The high-end models feature mechanized or aircraft-grade aluminum, which is very strong, light, and durable. The flip side is that such can be pretty costly.

If you cannot afford a bow press with metal cables, look for one whose cables feature fabric ribbon. This material may not be as strong as metallic cables but still delivers a decent performance and is more affordable. If all metallic, ensure the press is coated with a rust and corrosive resistant material to improve durability.

Ease of use

Cable type bow presses feature hex heads, and T handles to tighten the hex nut using the T-bar. This pulling method may seem easy, but in the real sense, it’s pretty cumbersome. You will need a lot of power to make the bolt and the nut tighter. However, a ratchet or a wrench can make the work easier.

The ratchet-loc models are much easier for a user to use. You will not require a lot of energy to pull and approximate the ends. However, you will require time to set the press up to use it. You will also need to take care; otherwise, the clams will lose position and grab on too tightly.

If you have the strength and need of a portable bow press, then the cable model is ideal. Choose the ratchet type for effortless use, but you will need to sacrifice time. You may additionally have to contend with the bulkiness of the ratchet-loc type. Performance is somewhat comparable.

Safety

Using bow presses can be pretty unsafe, especially if you are new to these accessories. Brackets should have rubber coating or any other cushion material, so they do not damage your bow. They should also be heavy enough to do their job. Failure of the brackets at the critical moment can be a source of danger to you.

Bow Press FAQs:

Qn1: What is a bow press, and why do I need it?

A bow press is a mechanical tool designed to flex the bow’s limbs to remove tension from the bow string and cable or cables to allow for maintenance work to be performed on the bow. You need this tool if you must avoid visiting an archery shop to have your bow maintained.

Qn2: Where can I buy a bow press from?

You can walk into any well-equipped archery shop to buy a bow press. However, you will be limited by the number of options available. A better idea is to buy it from online stores where you are sure of limitless possibilities and customer reviews. Besides, you will buy one at competitive prices and have it delivered right to your doorstep.

Qn3: How do you press bow at home?

It is easy to do a bow press at home if you have the proper technique. You can get the method by reading manuals provided by manufacturers, or watching video tutorials. Besides, you can get the information from an experienced archer if there is one in your area.

Qn4: What is a jackscrew bow press?

A jackscrew is one that you can turn to adjust the position of an object into which it can fit. In the context of a bow press, it allows for easier and more adjustments, making it ideal for bows of different sizes.

Final Verdict

Having the best bow press in the comfort of your home will make things much easier when it comes to maintaining your bows. It will save you cash, time, resources, and keep your bows working optimally. You can appreciate from each of our product reviews the quality and features we are interested in. Check them out; you will realize how great they are. You may find what you are looking for. Otherwise, use the buying guide to make an informed choice.